The
rejection of a pretrial intervention program for JamesP.Kelly, IV of Sommers Point, who has been charged with animal cruelty in
Ocean City, leaves his case still pending. If an individual completes
the program, a conviction will not appear on his or her criminal record.
Kelly was arrested on February 3rd after he allegedly beat a
small dog and left him in a portable toilet in Ocean City. The dog
was so severely beaten that it had to be euthanized.

(photo's
courtesy of NBC News 10)

Kelly had entered a no guilty plea and applied for the pretrial intervention
program, a diversion program for first time offenders that can last as long
as 36 months. Kelly’s attorney stated he had not decided whether he would
appeal the rejection.

Kelly’s
next court date is August 3rd.

Update
8/1/06:

(photo courtesy of NBC News 10) Kelly,
age 18 was friend on $1000 bail after being arrested. The 5 lb chihuahua
named Brendal was severely beaten and left to die in a port-o-potty at a
construction sight not far from the dogs home. The dog was partially submerged
into the port-o-potty but was still breathing.

(photo courtesy of NBC News 10) Mandie Longfellow,
Kelly's now ex-girlfriend, said that Kelly would often get frustrated with
Brendal for relieving himself inside the house. Kelly allegedly confessed
to beating the dog.

The
penalty if convicted can be a fine of as much as $15,000, a custodial sentence
of 3-5 years and up to 30 days community service.